Ductus venosus Doppler for fetal surveillance in high-risk pregnancies.

Doppler evaluation of the fetal ductus venosus has increased our depth of understanding of many fetal conditions. The ductus venosus has an important role in the regulation of nutrient partitioning in the fetus. Alterations in cardiac afterload, contractility compliance, intravascular volume status, and heart rate may significantly impact on the ductus venosus flow velocity waveform. Accordingly, ductus venosus Doppler is useful in the management of conditions that put the fetus at risk for cardiovascular deterioration. The application of DV Doppler in fetal growth restriction, complicated monochorionic multiple gestation, fetal hydrops, and arrhythmia are discussed in this review.